• A nicely trimmed and edged lawn always makes a good first impression.

• Maintain the home in ready-to-show condition with beds made, clutter removed, dishes put away and so forth. Then, you’re always ready for a showing as soon as you get the phone call.

• Showcase your home as if you are receiving guests... turn on lights or open drapes, place flowers in vases, hang your best towels, light a fire in the fireplace if it’s cold outside, and play soft background music.

• Sparkling clean windows let the sun shine through.

• Give the carpets a good cleaning to remove stains and odors, or even re-carpet if you feel it’s appropriate.

• Cracked or peeled paint and smudges on walls are easy fixes that, once taken care of, can give the home a fresh , new look.

• Keep your home tidy and pets outdoors to enhance your showings.

• In some cases, silence can be golden. If you are present for the showing, it’s best to reserve comments until the buyer has left your home.

• For safety purposes, it’s wise to show the home to buyer only if the agent working with them is present. You should also put away your most valuable items such as jewelry and collectibles.

• In some cases, silence can be golden. If you are present for the showing, it’s best to reserve comments until the buyer has left your home.